It happened on a… December 18

South Africa announces detection of new variant of COVID-19, called Beta (501.V2), which is driving a second wave of infections.

US House of Representatives votes to impeach President Donald Trump for abuse of power (230-197) and obstruction of Congress (229-198).

The last US troops withdraw from Iraq, formally ending the Iraq War.

James Cameron’s « Avatar » starring Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana and Sigourney Weaver, released in the US, becomes highest-grossing film of all time (since surpassed).

Céline Dion signs a $10 million contract with Sony Music.

« Wonder Woman » debuts on ABC.

« A Star is Born » film directed by Frank Pierson with Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson, premieres.

« The Pink Panther » film premieres directed by Blake Edwards and starring Peter Sellers and David Niven.

Tchaikovski’s ballet « Casse-noisette » premieres in St Petersburg.

Slavery was abolished in the United States with the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution being ratified.